Prairie dock (Silphium terebinthinaceum)

Prairie dock

Also known as: Smooth Prairie-Dock, Lucy braun's rosinweed, Dock-Rosinweed

Prairie dock (Silphium terebinthinaceum) is a perennial plant that will grow to 2.5 m tall. The leaves have a sandpaper texture and are 46 cm long. Blooms in summer with a tall flowering stalk filled with showy, yellow flowers. The nectar attracts all kinds of bees and the seeds provide food for goldfinches. Drought-resistant, it grows in full sun or partial shade.

Scientific classification

Species

Prairie dock (Silphium terebinthinaceum)

Asters bellflowers fanflowers and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

2.5 cm to 8 cm

Flower Size

Yellow

Flower Color

Green, Yellow

Stem Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Fall

Growth Season

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Prairie dock

Culture

Symbolism

Healing, Fertility, Money

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Toxicity

Prairie dock possesses mild toxicity to humans, cats, and dogs. All parts are toxic, leading to symptoms like gastrointestinal upset, headaches, dizziness, or mild skin irritation if ingested. To prevent harm, avoid consumption and keep prairie dock out of pets' reach. Seek veterinary assistance immediately if pets ingest the plant.

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Quickly Identify Prairie dock

Vibrant yellow sunflower-like blooms, 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm) in diameter.

Rough leaves oriented vertically, up to 18 inches (45 cm) long, with serrate margins.

Dock-like leaves near the base, dark green upper surface, light green underside with hairs.

Flattened achenes, tan or pale brown, 0.2-0.4 inches (5-10 mm), easily wind-dispersed.

Green or reddish stem, up to 10 feet (300 cm), leafless with distinctive branching pattern.

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Care Guide for Prairie dock

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Prairie dock, native to North America's prairies, thrives in conditions of intermittent rainfall and drought. It requires watering every 1-2 weeks, with the soil drying slightly between. This resilience makes prairie dock ideal for outdoor cultivation in regions with rain-aligned growing seasons.

Fertilize: Prairie dock thrives with balanced nutrition from fertilizers, particularly a higher phosphorus mix early on for root and flower development. Fertilize sparingly in spring and fall, avoiding excess. Use granular or liquid types without direct contact on stems or leaves, and minimize fertilization during winter dormancy.

Pruning: Prairie dock features large leaves and tall flower stalks. Prune in early to late spring to remove dead foliage and encourage growth. Trim post-bloom flower stalks and thin periodically to prevent overcrowding. Use clean, sharp tools for optimal results.

Propagation: Prairie dock is a hardy perennial from North American prairies with large leaves and tall flower stalks. Propagation via seeds is best, requiring a well-drained mix and cold stratification to mimic natural conditions. Water regularly for successful germination; it matures into a low-maintenance plant.

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